Sketchbook Vol.5

Photo Manipulation

Photo manipulation seems a bit normal to me. Lots of my friends would like to use photoshop and all kinds of filters when they take pictures. I use it sometimes. Obviously, the reason behind it is to make the images look better. We tend to use tools to get rid of those “flaws” on photos.

Suppose you want to use photo manipulation tools to make your photos look better. In that case, you can definitely do it because it is your photo, and you have the right to handle it with whatever you want.

“Ethical” Photo Manipulation

As far as photo manipulation is done by the individual who owns the photo, and it is for an individual’s own interests (make it look better, hide private information), the photo manipulation can be considered as ethical. Otherwise, photo manipulation is not really ethical. In fact, lots of people use this approach to deceive others or generate profits. Some even manipulate photos from others without permission. They are all unethical.

What is the purpose of the human image in advertising? What is the purpose in news? Is there a difference?

The purpose of the human image in the news is simple: expressing the truth. All human images are used to tell their audiences what is happening and what the story is about. They are a massive part of the story.

The purposes of the human image in advertising are complicated. Sometimes it is used for celebrity endorsement; sometimes, it is used for reflecting certain aspects of the product/service.

Speaking of photo manipulation, in the news, television workers manipulate human images to protect privacy. While in the ad, photo manipulation is often used for exaggeration.